Resilience Amid Conflict: Expats in UAE Adjust to New Normal as War Escalates
A peculiar sense of normalcy has emerged in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, juxtaposed against alarming reports of burning buildings and strikes on airports. Mina Al-Oraibi, editor-in-chief of The National, noted the remarkable adaptability of humans, stating, “There is still, of course, an unease. When you hear the alert, when you hear the thuds of interception and so forth, incredible unease. Nobody can take it away.”
For locals, expatriates, and diplomats, a swift adjustment to a new reality has become essential. The conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran ignited during Ramadan, a holy month characterized by fasting during the day and communal evening meals.
Families are still making the most of Dubai Creek Harbour despite the war. (Reuters: Amr Alfiky)
In the initial days of the conflict, Emiratis were taken aback by the attacks, especially as the United Arab Emirates had been advocating against military action. Many residents opted to stay indoors, with some rushing to withdraw cash or stock up on supplies. However, the adjustment period was brief. Al-Oraibi remarked, “You know, food isn’t affected. The internet isn’t affected. General day-to-day life isn’t affected.”
This resilience has led to a collective determination not to be subdued. Al-Oraibi emphasized that the community aims for peace and continues to uphold traditions, such as attending Friday prayers, which remain well attended.
Changes in Daily Life
Despite the resilience, life has undeniably changed. The traditional Ramadan cannon, which signals the end of daily fasting, has been silenced, along with regular fireworks displays. Residents have reported GPS disruptions, attributed to security measures or potential foreign interference. School holidays have been rescheduled, and many public and private sector employees have been instructed to work from home.
The UAE’s geographical position near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway, has heightened tensions, especially as Iran has restricted vessel movements, impacting global oil transport. The Emirates have faced the most significant bombardment from Iranian drones and missiles in the Gulf region, surpassing even Israel. Fortunately, over 90% of these threats have been intercepted, with most casualties resulting from debris rather than direct strikes.
Incidents have occurred at key locations, including Dubai Airport and the Fairmont Hotel on Palm Jumeirah. Recently, a drone strike targeted airport infrastructure, resulting in flight cancellations. Gulf nations, including Israel, have cautioned residents to be mindful of the information they share regarding the conflict, as posting certain content could lead to legal repercussions.
Life Goes On
For expatriates like Brett Evans, a businessman from Australia, the situation feels reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic. He described the protocols in place during alarms, emphasizing the human capacity to normalize challenging circumstances. “We still go to the parks and still walk the dogs and go to the store, go get groceries. So that hasn’t changed,” he stated.
Australia’s ambassador to the UAE, Ridwaan Jadwat, has experienced a shift in daily life in Abu Dhabi, where the threat of missile and drone attacks is more pronounced than in Dubai. Following directives for embassy staff families to return to Australia, the embassy has seen a significant reduction in personnel due to escalating security concerns, prompting airlines to suspend services to the region.
In the immediate aftermath of the conflict’s onset, thousands of travelers found themselves stranded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Airlines took responsibility for their accommodation and meals, while safe air corridors were established to facilitate limited flights. On February 28, approximately 30,000 people were reported at Dubai Airport, with 7,000 in Abu Dhabi, necessitating emergency accommodations.
Economic Outlook
Despite the turmoil, the UAE’s economy is projected to remain resilient, according to S&P Global Ratings. The agency noted that the country’s fiscal and economic buffers would likely mitigate the impact of regional conflict. However, it has revised its growth forecasts, lowering the expected GDP growth to an average of 2.5% for 2026-27, down from 4.2%. This adjustment reflects anticipated declines in tourism and potential expatriate outflows.
The UAE’s strategic location provides an advantage over some Gulf neighbors, particularly with its port in Fujairah, although it has recently come under attack. The ongoing conflict raises questions about the Gulf’s role as a central air transport hub, with major airlines like Emirates and Etihad facing significant disruptions. Cirium reported that over 52,000 flights to and from the Middle East have been canceled since the conflict began, affecting an estimated 6 million passengers.
Estimates of lost tourism spending range from $34 billion to $56 billion this year, depending on the duration of the conflict and its impact on traveler sentiment. Evans noted a prevailing sense of concern among his clients, yet he observed that most people are not fearful.
Evans expressed confidence in the UAE government’s transparency regarding the situation, stating, “As long as we are able to make informed decisions, then I can’t see any reason to leave.” Ambassador Jadwat echoed this sentiment, highlighting the UAE’s track record of resilience and optimism for a swift recovery post-conflict.
As reported by www.abc.net.au.
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Published on 2026-03-17 05:06:00 • By Editorial Desk
